The Black Codes
Independent Student Activity: Developing an Argument
Essential Question: To what extent were the Black Codes an extension of the conditions
under slavery for Black citizens in the Southern states?
Part 1: Black Codes vs. Slavery
Watch or rewatch the video The Black Codes and read the background essay.
Use the information you gathered from the video and reading, as well as your
knowledge of life under slavery to complete the following chart:
Black Codes
Ability to choose
your work
Ability to keep
your family
together
Ability to travel
and move freely
Slavery